3-Day Catalina Island Backpacking & Yoga Retreat

June 13 - 15, 2025

August 15 - 17, 2025

Catalina Island, California

Catalina Island Yogapacking Retreat

  • Escape to Catalina Island’s secluded Little Harbor Campground, a hidden gem ranked by Sunset Magazine as one of the best campgrounds in the West. Accessible only by foot or boat with a secured permit, this adventure takes you off the beaten path, offering a rare opportunity to connect with nature in one of the island’s most serene locations.

    Day 1:
    We’ll meet at the Catalina Express ferry terminal at 7:00 AM to check gear and confirm your pack setup. At 8:45 AM, we’ll board the ferry for a scenic 1-hour 15-minute ride to Two Harbors. Breakfast is on your own, with options available for purchase on the ferry.

    Upon arrival, we’ll embark on a 5.64-mile hike to our Little Harbor campsite, with a lunch stop along the trail, offering breathtaking views. We anticipate arrival around 2:30 PM. After setting up camp, enjoy a relaxing yoga session on the beach, followed by dinner at the campsite (all meals at campsite included). The evening will include a campfire and group activities, perfect for unwinding and connecting with fellow travelers.

    Day 2:
    This day is all about relaxation and exploration. Start with a morning slow flow yoga + meditation session, then enjoy free time to swim, day hike, meditate, read, or create art in the peaceful surroundings. As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset viewing, another yin + meditation session, and a cozy bonfire to reflect on the day’s experiences.

    Day 3:
    On the final morning, enjoy one last yoga session, followed by breakfast at camp. Afterward, we’ll hike back to Two Harbors, wrapping up an unforgettable experience on Catalina Island.

    This trail strikes a perfect balance—challenging yet stunning, mountainous yet near the ocean, secluded yet close to civilization.

    • Distance: 5.64 miles each way

    • Elevation Gain: 1486 ft

    • Time: 3-5 hours

    • Difficulty: (3/5)

    Whether you're a seasoned backpacker, an experienced yogi, or just starting out, this weekend trip offers something unique for everyone. Join a community of like-minded people while deepening connection to the land and self.

  • June 13–15, 2025: Join our June weekend, where we’ll enjoy spacious group campsite 8 just steps from the beach.

    August 15–17, 2025: Join our August weekend, where we’ll enjoy spacious group campsite 9 just steps from the beach.

    Both programs offer a tranquil location ideal for beachside yoga, calming coastal meditations, and a restorative mental reset.

  • Travel and Logistics

    For those traveling from out of state, the nearest airport to San Pedro is Long Beach (LGB) Airport which is 10.3 miles away from the ferry terminal. Other nearby airports include Los Angeles (LAX) (15.9 miles). We recommend booking a stay at one of the nearby hotels in Long Beach, CA. We'll reach out to you before your trip to confirm your travel details.

    Preparation

    Food Options:

    Meals at camp are included in the trip price, ensuring a relaxing and hassle-free experience. Enjoy freshly prepared meals so you can focus on connecting with nature.

    Included Meals:

    • Two dinners at camp

    • One lunch at camp

    • Two breakfasts to start your days

    • Coffee, tea, juice, and desserts provided at camp

    Food You’ll Bring:

    • Breakfast on Day 1 is on your own (food available on ferry for purchase)

    • Pack a to-go lunch for the trail on Day 1

    • Trail snacks, your favorite extra food, and treats to keep you fueled throughout the hike

    Footwear Requirements:

    It is essential to have hiking boots secured at least two weeks prior to the trip. This allows ample time to break them in and avoid discomfort or blisters during the hike. Guidance on shoe selection provided upon request.

    Physical Requirements:

    While prior hiking experience is not required, participants should be prepared for some challenging sections. The group pace will accommodate all levels, but it’s important to ensure you have the stamina to carry your gear and complete the hikes.

    This trip requires moderate fitness and the ability to hike up to 6 miles per day with a backpack weighing about 30-40lbs, including elevation gains and descents.

    If you’d like training tips or have questions on what to expect, please reach out to us at trailboundyoga@gmail.com. We’re happy to help with the prep!

    Safety

    Your safety is our highest priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional guides who are certified Wilderness First Responders, bringing years of backcountry experience. Every tour is equipped with an emergency communication device and a professional first-aid kit.

    • One Pre-Trip Meeting & Intro to Backpacking Session: For group bonding as well a preparation. Connect with the group and prepare for the adventure ahead.

    • All meals at camp are included in the trip price, ensuring a relaxing and hassle-free experience.

      Included Meals:

      • Two dinners at camp

      • One lunch at camp

      • Two breakfasts to start your days

      • Coffee, tea, juice, and desserts provided at camp

    • Ferry Transportation: to and from Catalina Island ($96 roundtrip value)

    • Communal Camp Supplies: Tents, Headlamps, Firewood, Firestarter, Stoves, Kitchenware & Cooksets, Camp Utensils, Fuel, Navigation Tools, Coolers, + more

    • Professional WFR & LNT Certified Guide

    • Camping Permits: All Catalina Island camping permits, hiking permits are covered.

    • All-Inclusive Retreat Activities:

      • Daily yoga and meditation sessions with certified yoga instructors

      • Intro to Backpacking 101 onsite exercises

      • Japanese forest bathing-inspired meditations

      • Reflection workshops and intention-setting practices

      • Environmental stewardship activities and outdoor educational sessions

    • Optional Add-Ons:

      • Gear rental (add-on costs) available for your convenience.

  • What to Bring

    We’ll provide most of your camping gear, but there are some essential items to bring:

    • Hiking clothing for various weather conditions

    • Backpack for your gear

    • Sleeping bag and sleeping pad

    • Water bottle

    A detailed packing list will be provided upon registration. If you need any gear, we offer rentals for an additional fee.

    Food You’ll Bring

    • Breakfast on Day 1 is on your own (food available for purchase on the ferry)

    • Pack a to-go lunch for the trail on Day 1

    • Trail snacks and any extra food or treats for the trail

    Not Included

    • Flights/Travel to San Pedro, CA or Long Beach, CA

    • Lodging before or after the trip

    • Parking at the ferry terminal ($24.95 per day)

    • Personal travel/trip insurance

    • Gratuity for guides

  • Booking

    A $99 deposit is required to reserve your spot, with the remaining balance due 30 days before your departure date. Reach out to discuss flexible monthly payment plans. Be sure to review our cancellation policy before booking.

    • Deposit Payment - $99 USD

    • First Tier: Full Payment - $349 USD (SOLD OUT)

    • Final Tier: Full Payment - $399 USD

    • Gear Rental - Differs Per Item (see checkout for add ons)

Coastal view with ocean, cliffs, and a wooden trail sign
Boats anchored in a bay with mountains and buildings in the background.
Map of Crater Lake National Park on wooden table with travel brochures, papers, pen, and coffee mug.

Sample Catalina Trip Itinerary

  • We’ll meet 2-3 weeks (flexible and will provide two date options, as well as virtual session) before the trip for a 3-hour introductory backpacking course. This orientation is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and confidence needed to prepare for a successful and enjoyable backpacking experience.

    What We'll Cover:

    • Planning Essentials: Learn how to choose a location, assess trail conditions, permits, and prepare.

    • Gear Overview: Review the gear list, covering must-haves and optional items, and conduct a boot check. Review how to effectively pack a backpack.

    • Route and Weather: Review the trail map, understand the route, and discuss how to prepare for varying weather conditions.

    • Environmental Factors: Review wildlife on the island, trail conditions, water availability (and filter options).

    • Food and Logistics: Go over group meals, snack suggestions, tent partners, and travel or carpooling arrangements.

    • Stewardship and Safety: Learn about Leave No Trace 101 principles and explore stewardship opportunities to give back to the trail.

    Any medical conditions requiring pre-trip planning will be addressed privately.

  • Morning

    • Meet at the San Pedro, CA ferry terminal to board the 8:45 AM boat to Two Harbors, Catalina Island (1 hour 15 minutes).

    • Upon arrival, stop at the Two Harbors Visitor Center to drop off communal supplies for the gear drop.

    • Visit the local store for any last-minute essentials before hitting the trail.

    Afternoon

    • Hike 5.64 miles to Little Harbor Campground and set up camp.

    • Enjoy free time to relax and settle in.

    Evening

    • Unwind with a sunset yoga session on the beach.

    • Gather for dinner and a campfire, soaking in the first night under the stars.

  • Morning

    • Begin the day with a yoga session and meditation, followed by a nourishing breakfast.

    • Enjoy free time to relax or explore. Suggested activities:

      • Hike nearby trails

      • Get creative with arts and crafts (materials provided)

      • Read, lounge on the beach, or swim

      • Rent gear for kayaking or snorkeling (additional cost; details provided)

    Early Afternoon

    • Join a yoga flow

    • Learn about land stewardship and conservation efforts.

    Late Afternoon

    • Gather for a late lunch, followed by a guided Japanese forest bathing experience.

    • Enjoy additional free time to explore or unwind.

    Evening

    • Close the day around the bonfire, sharing reflections and stories from the trip.

  • Morning

    • Start the day with breakfast at camp.

    • Follow up with a final yoga practice to stretch and prepare for the journey ahead.

    • Pack up camp and hike back to Two Harbors.

    Afternoon

    • Arrive in Two Harbors and enjoy some free time.

    • Optional beachside lunch to celebrate the trip and reflect on the experience.

    • Board the ferry back to San Pedro, concluding our adventure.